Scribbling: meaning, definitions and examples

Describes writing or drawing quickly and carelessly, often associated with young children. Like 'scribbling,' it usually has a negative connotation.

• The toddler enjoyed scribbling with crayons on the wall.
• She spent the last few minutes of class scribbling random thoughts in her notebook.

Used to refer to writing down quick, brief notes. It typically has a neutral or positive connotation, indicating efficiency or the need to quickly capture information.

• He was jotting down ideas for his next project.
• She jotted a quick reminder on a sticky note and placed it on the fridge.

Describes drawing or sketching aimlessly, usually done while thinking about something else or passing the time. It can be informal and often has a neutral or slightly positive connotation.

• She was doodling on her notepad while waiting for the meeting to start.
• His notebook was filled with random doodling from a boring lecture.

Refers to writing in a hurried, careless, or messy manner. It often has a negative connotation, suggesting the writing is difficult to read.

• The note was barely legible because it was scrawled in haste.
• He scrawled his name at the bottom of the page.